OPINION
In-form Newcastle United host Arsenal on Sunday in the Premier League and must go into that match with a shedload of confidence.
The Magpies have won their last three consecutive league matches and risen up to 10th in the table, eliminating fears of relegation in the process.
Rafael Benitez’ side are now firmly in the hunt for a top half finish and they have the quality to beat Arsenal at St James’ Park at the weekend.
The Gunners played on Thursday night in the Europa League and their focus is certainly on that competition.
Newcastle should make a tactical tweak from the team that impressed away against Leicester, with Islam Slimani coming into the side at the expense of Dwight Gayle.
Slimani has been rarely-seen since his January move to the club and has just one appearance under his belt so far.
However, the 29-year-old is a proven goalscorer and must be given his first start against Arsenal.
The powerhouse centre-forward should get opportunities to score and his aerial threat would also expose an Arsenal weakness.
Meanwhile, Gayle should be the player to make way and that is despite his performances of late.
The 27-year-old has shown a tremendous work-rate and always puts in a shift, but unfortunately he is still lacking that bit of quality in front of goal.
His five-goal tally this season is still not quite good enough and Slimani would provide a better outlet in the remaining games.